Who is a scientist, according to students today? What do students imagine when they think “scientist”? Who even has the ability to do science or become a scientist?

Sometimes we are taught about STEMM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Medicine) with historical figures like Albert Einstein and Marie Curie, but most people cannot personally relate to these figures and do not necessarily want to wear a white lab coat, don glasses, and hold test tubes all day. In order for students to truly see themselves as scientists, they need to develop a strong STEMM identity.

A STEMM identity is an individual’s sense of belonging and connection to STEMM, as a valued and accepted contributor to a STEMM field.

A STEMM identity should be fostered early, often, and consistently throughout a child’s educational journey, as early as elementary school (in and outside the classroom). A strong STEMM identity results in positive learning experiences, as students are motivated through genuine interest and motivation (as opposed to obligation). With this buy-in and engagement, students result in stronger academic performance and persistence when facing challenges. Students who have a strong STEMM identity are also more likely to pursue STEMM careers in the field. Therefore, it is vital that educators understand students' existing beliefs about STEMM. This understanding allows educators to focus their efforts and encourage students to reflect on their own biases and their impact on their STEMM identity.

While there are barriers for students in STEMM, outlined below are a handful of actionable strategies for educators to foster STEMM identities in their students.

• Develop student confidence by providing encouraging and wise feedback in STEMM student spaces (classroom, afterschool programs, clubs). This will support students’ belief in their ability to succeed in STEMM.
• Incorporate active learning strategies that play to the strengths of students. These activities can help to increase student persistence and affirm STEMM identities.
• Foster a sense of belonging for students by incorporating a variety of STEMM knowledge makers in lessons. Increase awareness of what it means to work in STEMM through the narrative stories on LabXchange.
• Explore STEMM careers with LabXchange’s new CareerXplorer. Career exploration supports STEMM identity development by connecting to real-world applications and demonstrating the relevance of classroom learning.

For additional ideas, watch a recent webinar hosted by LabXchange Relationship Manager, Nicole Sjoblom. Watch the recording below, or click here to watch on YouTube.

With a strong STEMM identity, students can picture themselves working in STEMM and feel confident in pursuing this path for themselves. It's one way that we, as educators and scientists ourselves, can prepare the next generation of STEMM professionals for a successful future.